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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Wilmington, NC (NOW HIRING)

Skylla

Warehouse Site Lead

Camp Lejeune, NC · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

... defense missions. We are passionate about attracting and retaining exceptional talent by offering ... Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault (PM AAA) Warehouse Support Services contract. The ...

System One

Operations Manager

Currie, NC · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Support development and execution of preventive maintenance programs * Collaborate with Quality ... Experience within nuclear, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated industries * Equipment ...

System One

Operations Manager

Currie, NC · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Support development and execution of preventive maintenance programs * Collaborate with Quality ... Experience within nuclear, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated industries * Equipment ...

System One

Operations Manager

Currie, NC · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Support development and execution of preventive maintenance programs * Collaborate with Quality ... Experience within nuclear, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated industries * Equipment ...

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All JobsProgram Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense JobsProgram Manager Defense Jobs in Wilmington, NC

Program Manager Defense information

See Wilmington, NC salary details

$35.9K

$100.1K

$146.3K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Wilmington, NC is $100,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,100.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager defense?

A Program Manager in Defense is responsible for overseeing and coordinating large-scale defense projects, which may involve military equipment, technology systems, or defense-related services. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all specified requirements and regulations. This role often includes working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and liaising with government agencies or military branches. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is a thorough understanding of defense industry standards and protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager defense?

To thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in project management, defense acquisition processes, and often a relevant degree such as engineering or business, with security clearance frequently required. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and DoD-specific platforms, as well as certifications like PMP or DAWIA, are typically expected. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills set top performers apart by enabling them to manage diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure effective project execution, compliance with defense regulations, and successful delivery of critical programs within scope, budget, and timeline.

What are some common challenges a program manager defense faces when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Program Managers in the defense industry often encounter challenges such as balancing strict security requirements with timely project delivery, managing cross-functional teams that include engineers, analysts, and government stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with evolving defense regulations. Navigating complex stakeholder expectations and adapting to shifting project scopes are also frequent hurdles. Successful Program Managers proactively foster communication across teams and maintain detailed project documentation to address these challenges.

What is the difference between Program Manager Defense vs Project Manager Defense?

AspectProgram Manager DefenseProject Manager Defense
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, strategic planning, and overall program successManages individual projects, ensuring specific objectives are met within scope, time, and budget
CertificationsTypically PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsUsually PMP or CAPM certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in defense contractors, government agencies, or military settingsSimilar environments, focusing on specific project deliverables
FocusStrategic coordination and long-term goalsTactical execution of individual projects

While both roles require project management skills and certifications like PMP, the Program Manager Defense oversees multiple projects and aligns them with strategic objectives, whereas the Project Manager Defense focuses on managing specific projects to meet immediate goals.

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Wilmington, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Wilmington, NC are:

What cities near Wilmington, NC are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Wilmington, NC with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Program Manager Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Wilmington, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,139 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Program Manager with Security Clearance

Oak Grove Technologies LLC

Camp Lejeune, NC • On-site

Contractor

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Oak Grove Technologies, LLC, a dynamic and fast-growing federal contractor, is seeking a dynamic Task Lead/Program Manager - (PR/SERE - HRTI) to assist the Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARFORSOC) in their training initiatives. MARFORSOC has tasked the Marine Raider Training Center (MRTC) to train, equip, and protect its personnel; to prepare them for potential isolating events, enhance recovery efforts, and reduce the potential for exploitation of captured personnel. The ideal candidate will be a proactive leader with a SOF background and at least 18 months of experience in program management methodologies, team supervision, and process improvement strategies. This will be accomplished through Personnel Recovery (PR) and SERE training and education at Camp Lejeune, NC. Position requires an active SECERT clearance. Oak Grove Technologies is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business based in Raleigh, NC, with a Test and Training Center located near Fort Bragg and Camp Mackall. With over 20 years of expertise in training, consulting, technology, and operational support, the company provides services to the military, government, and law enforcement. Committed to excellence, innovation, and national security, Oak Grove Technologies fulfills federal defense contracts and actively supports veterans through sponsorships and events. Driven by its mission-focused approach, the company seeks top talent to develop impactful solutions.  Oak Grove Technologies offers a competitive compensation and benefits package.    Requirements Qualifications: * BA/BS degree accomplishment in any field
* OR-- Program Management Professional (PgMP) certifications
* OR-- Any post high school education AND 10 yrs SOF and/or PR/SERE experience
* AND_ 5 yrs as a certified instructor at a FSLC SERE School_
* Eighteen (18) months of experience as a Program or Contract Manager
* Five (5) years of leadership experience (military, contract or civilian) as a Section Lead (SE or RE equivalent) for a SERE or SOF specific high-risk course.
* Six (6) years’ experience as a SERE Instructor at a DoD approved FSLC SERE school of which three years must have been at a USSOCOM FSLC SERE Course, i.e. MARFORSOC, NSW, USAJFKSWCS.
* Must be resident expert in Personnel Recovery, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (PR/SERE) Instruction and training; to include specialized JPRA training courses PR303, SERE350, SERE370 and SERE360 or commensurate verifiable experience.
* Must also meet all requirements of a SERE Instructor and SERE Section Lead
* Must be able to lift up to (50) pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 
Responsibilities * Lead and coordinate complex programs aligned with PR (Personnel Recovery) and SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training initiatives for special operations forces.
* Manage project schedules using tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, or Jira while maintaining scope, risk, and cost controls throughout the project lifecycle.
* Conduct program reviews, status meetings, and stakeholder presentations to communicate progress and resolve conflicts effectively.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract Work Location: In person  Experience: * Certified instructor at a FSLC SERE School: 5 years (Preferred)
* Program or Contract Manager : 2 years (Preferred)
* SOF specific high-risk course: 5 years (Preferred)
* Resident expert in (PR/SERE) Instruction and Training: 6 years (Preferred)
* military, contract or civilian leadership for a SERE program : 5 years (Preferred)
* Section Lead (SE or RE equivalent) for DoD SERE program: 5 years (Preferred)
Education: * Bachelor's (Preferred)
License/Certification: * Program Management Professional (PgMP) certifications (Preferred)
 Security Clearance Requirements:   *  Position requires an active SECERT clearance. 
Compensation and Benefits:  Competitive Pay, PTO, Health Benefits. Oak Grove Technologies is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class. Oak Grove Technologies, LLC participates in E-Verify to determine an individual's identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States. E-Verify is a service of DHS and SSA.

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